The Big List of Nootropics

This is a comprehensive list of the most popular Nootropics in use today. Here you’ll learn what the nootropic is, what it does and suggested dosages.

If you are new to the world of Nootropics, you may be wondering the best way to use a particular compound. You’ll find that here.

If you are an experienced neurohacker this is a great quick reference guide.

You’ll find the full scope of benefits of each Nootropic. Its specific mechanism of action. How safe it is. And suggestions on pairing it with other Nootropics for your stack.

A word of caution – always start off with the lowest effective dose of any supplement. Each of our bodies is different so you need to find out the effects of each nootropic in your body. And how it will benefit you.

The list of Nootropics is in alphabetical order. To quickly go to that listing just click on the name in the Table of Contents below.

Acetyl L-Carnitine (ALCAR)

Acetyl L-Carnitine ((R)-3-Acetyloxy-4-trimethylammonio-butanoate) is an acetylated form of L-Carnitine. A derivative of the amino acid lysine which is naturally produced in your liver and kidneys. This synthesized form can easily cross the blood-brain barrier.

ALCAR is a nootropic because it targets your brain metabolism, boosts mitochondria energy, and acts as a neuroprotectant. Acetyl L-Carnitine protects neurotransmitters which makes it a powerful compliment to boost the effectiveness of other nootropics.

Alpha-GPC

Alpha GPC (alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine) is found naturally in your brain. It is a precursor to acetylcholine – an essential neurotransmitter involved in memory, cognition, sleep and muscular control.

You get Alpha GPC from raw beef liver, cod fish, spinach, milk, soy and eggs. As a supplement, Alpha GPC derived from soy or sunflower lecithin is a more efficient way of boosting acetylcholine in your brain.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)

Alpha-Lipoic Acid used as a nootropic is a synthetic version of lipoic acid. A compound naturally occurring in your body. This antioxidant is necessary for cellular energy production. And helps eliminate the free radicals created when nutrients convert to cellular energy.

Aniracetam

Aniracetam (1-(4-methoxybenzoyl)-2-pyrrolidinone) is an N-side chain derivative of piracetam. It is thought to be 5 to 8-times more potent than piracetam. Aniracetam is fat-soluble and has a shorter half-life compared to other racetams.

A potent nootropic, Aniracetam reduces anxiety and depression with no sedative effects. It seems to do this by activating the D2 and D3 Dopamine receptors in the brain. Aniracetam helps improve memory, learning, cognition, along with heightened reflexes and perception.

Bacopa Monnieri

Many consider Bacopa Monnieri to be the best nootropic available today. The nootropic benefit of Bacopa Monnieri were first revealed in ancient Ayurvedic texts. In Ayurveda its used to help memorize long passages of text. And enhance cognition.

The ancient Hindis liked it so much they named it “Brahmi”, after the supreme god Brahma.

Bacopa Monnieri is an adaptogen. It helps prevent the chemical and physical effects of stress. Instead of just suppressing them like many modern antidepressants.

Bacopa Monnieri is used to reduce anxiety, depression, and stress. It’ll boost memory, concentration and reaction time. And is used for neuroprotection, and to balance neurotransmitters.

The compound Bacoside A easily crosses the blood-brain barrier. And binds to receptor sites to increase cognition and memory. It has been shown effective in treating ADHD.

Berberine

Berberine is a bright yellow alkaloid extracted from plants such as Indian Barberry (tree turmeric), Oregon Grape and goldenseal.

Plants containing Berberine have been used in traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine as an antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-diarrheal, anti-microbial, anti-protozoal and immune-enhancing therapy for thousands of years.

Berberine is one of the very few nootropic supplements known to activate AMPK (another is Resveratrol).

Activating AMPK is especially relevant if you’re diabetic, pre-diabetic, or over-weight. All conditions that negatively affect cognition. Research and clinical experience has shown Berberine to be as effective in controlling diabetes as the prescription drug metformin.

Berberine is one of the most powerful (literally) nootropic supplements on our List of Nootropics. Not only can Berberine help control diabetes, but you may find sugar cravings disappear. No crashes late afternoon. Energy levels and stamina increase.

Dosing Berberine as a nootropic is 500 mg 3-times per day. If you are dealing with a medical condition, or are taking any medication (including antibiotics), you should speak with your doctor before taking Berberine. Especially if you’re currently using blood-sugar lowering medication.

CBD Oil

Cannabidiol (CBD) is extracted from the Cannabis Sativa L. plant constituting around 40% of the plant’s active compounds.

CBD does not have the same psychotomimetic (mind-altering) effects as the main plant compound THC (Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol). In fact, CBD is able to counter the mind-altering effects caused by THC.

CBD Oil is used as a nootropic for its antianxiety and antidepressant effects, helps alleviate pain, reduces oxidative stress and inflammation and is anti-tumor.

Research into CBD has rapidly gained traction in the last few years. And shows potential in the treatment of depression, neuroinflammation, epilepsy, oxidative stress, vomiting and nausea, anxiety, schizophrenia and other neurodegenerative problems.

Note that CBD Oil and hemp oilare not the same and should not be confused. You will not experience the same nootropic benefits with hemp oil as you will with CBD Oil.

Recommended starting dosage of CBD is 4 – 45 mg per day. Dosage of CBD Oil depends on the condition you are treating, your body weight, and how your body reacts to Cannabidiol. Dosages differ from one person to the next.

The way your body uses different sources of choline varies depending on the source, and mechanism of action. Common choline sources used as nootropics are explained next.

Choline Bitartrate

Choline Bitartrate is a “choline salt”, and one of the least costly sources of choline as a nootropic supplement. Its a weaker source of choline than Alpha GPC and CDP-Choline. Meaning you need to use more to achieve similar nootropic effects.

Choline Citrate

Like other sources of choline, choline citrate acts as a precursor to acetylcholine in the brain. This is a slightly more concentrated form of choline. It’s a combination of choline and a derivative of citric acid.

Athletes like choline citrate for its ability to assist in cellular and muscle health and repair.

Choline citrate is available in powder, capsule or pill form. And you’ll find it as a main ingredient in many pre-formulated nootropic stacks. Since its water soluble you can take it with water, or mixed with your favorite juice.

CDP-Choline

CDP-Choline (Cytidine Diphosphate Choline) is also known as Citicoline. CDP-choline is a highly bioavailable source of choline that easily crosses the blood-brain barrier.

CDP-Choline is metabolized in the body to form choline and cytidine.[i] In the body choline aids in the synthesis of acetylcholine in the body. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter associated with memory and learning.

The cytidine in CDP-Choline converts to uridine in the body. This nucleotide is important to neural membrane synthesis which helps cognition or thinking.

CDP-Choline is an effective nootropic on its own. And works synergistically to boost the effectiveness of other nootropics. Particularly those in the racetam family.

Medium-chain fatty acids are also known as medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). MCTs are produced by hydrolyzing coconut oil and esterifying the fatty acids shorter than lauric acid (C-12) with glycerol.

Both coconut and MCT oil provide some powerful nootropic properties. The MCTs in coconut oil bypass your normal digestive system and go directly to your liver where they are converted to ketones.

Ketones are carried throughout your body including your brain for use in the citric acid cycle to produce Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP). ATP fuels your mitochondria which improves alertness, cognition, memory and mood.

MCTs help increase antioxidant levels in your brain. And increase serotonin which provides an anti-stress effect.

And coconut oil decreases mitochondrial dysfunction that can be caused by Amyloid-β plaques which are implicated in Alzheimer’s disease. And drug-resistant epilepsy patients have found that the ketones provided by coconut oil can help reduce seizure frequency.

Coconut & MCT oil are a helpful addition to any nootropic stack which contains fat-soluble supplements. Improving the bioavailability of those nootropics by delivering them directly into brain cells.

Recommended dosage of Coconut & MCT oil is 1 tablespoon 3-times per day. Or each time you take your nootropic dose.

Coluracetam

One of the newer racetams on the market, coluracetam works as a choline uptake enhancer.

As a nootropic, coluracetam enhances concentration and cognition, boosts memory, mood and focus, and treats anxiety disorders. It also seems to have a stimulant effect which improves motivation. Users also report richer and fuller sound and colors.

General dosage is 20 – 80 mg. per day, but depends on your reason for using coluracetam. And your past experience in using racetams. You may want start with a lower dose, and increase over time based on your experience with this nootropic.

CoQ10 & Ubiquinol

Coenzyme Q10 is naturally obtained from food such as; beef, liver, sardines, mackerel, butter, and extra virgin olive oil. In an ideal world our bodies would convert enough CoQ10 to Ubiquinol from our food. But a more convenient way is giving our bodies CoQ10 directly by using Ubiquinol as a supplement. No conversion necessary.

The original supplement form of CoQ10 was Ubiquinone. It was updated with a newer synthesis of CoQ10 called Ubiquinol which boosts bioavailability from 40% to 90%.

Creatine

Creatine is made in the liver, and acts as fuel cells for your cells. Including brain cells. It provides energy on demand. You could say creatine is the ultimate nootropic.

Creatine is a popular supplement for athletes because it boosts physical performance by going directly to the muscles needing fuel. Vegetarians and vegans typically have lower levels of creatine in the body than meat eaters.

Creatine is also favored by nootropic users because of the fuel demanded by brain cells when using racetams. After crossing the blood-brain barrier, creatine binds to phosphate. Creatine phosphate in turn fuels energy consumption by the brain.

So creatine is good for muscle fuel, and mental performance. It helps boost memory, reducing brain fatigue, improve mood, is anti-aging and a neuroprotectant.

Dosage recommendation vary widely based on personal preference and physical demand. It goes from 200 mg to 25 grams daily. As a nootropic the most common creatine dosage is 3 – 5 grams per day.

DHA (Omega 3)

Your brain is 60% fat. So it would be safe to say that to maintain and excel mentally, our brain needs a good supply of healthy fats.

The two most studied omega-3 fatty acids are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). DHA makes up a large portion of brain gray matter. Brain fat forms cell membranes. And plays a vital role in how our cells function. Neurons are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids. DHA is a main component of brain synapses. (A synapse is the part of a brain cell that causes a neuron to pass an electrical signal to another neuron).

Low levels of omega-3 fatty acids result in ADD, anxiety, depression, obesity, suicide, and an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

Diets rich in omega-3’s help balance emotions and boost mood because DHA is a main component of the brain’s synapses.

Eating fish helps cognitive performance because fish, krill, and other marine life are high in Omega-3’s. Other foods high in Omega-3 fatty acids include: anchovies, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, flaxseed, soybeans, walnuts, spinach, and tofu.

Ideal daily dosage for Omega-3’s should include a least 1,000 mg of DHA.

DHEA

DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone produce by your adrenal glands, brain, and testes in men. DHEA levels decline with age right along with testosterone. The result is deceased motivation, cognition, depression, fatigue, and loss of libido.

DHEA as a nootropic has a noticeable effect on increasing motivation, and a general sense of well-being.

Remember that DHEA is a steroid hormone, and does increase estrogen. In men prolonged elevated estrogen levels has negative effects like abdominal fat, and male breasts.

Dosing DHEA is 25 mg. per day and you may want to cycle one month on and one month off. And get your estradiol & DHEA levels checked.

DMAE

DMAE (Dimethylaminoethanol) naturally occurs in the brain. DMAE is not a precursor to acetylcholine as reported on some other nootropic sites. DMAE prevents choline metabolism by cells and boosting choline levels in the brain as a result.

DMAE as a nootropic helps increase alertness, boosts mood and memory. Studies show that DMAE supplementation may help improve mood.[iii]

Use of DMAE as a nootropic has mixed reviews in the neurohacking community. Some report benefits to increased energy. And others say it causes hyperactivity, loss of focus and motivation, and depression. Most of the negative effects of DMAE come from higher and prolonged dosing.

Like all nootropics, and particularly with DMAE, experiment to find out if it’s right for you. Start out with a smaller 50 mg. dose, and go as high as 200 mg. per day looking for your sweet spot. And check out the “Dosage Notes” and “Side Effects” in the extended article for more on DMAE.

5-HTP

5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) is a serotonin precursor in the brain. It is a naturally occurring byproduct of the amino acid tryptophan. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps communication between neurons.

5-HTP as a nootropic easily crosses the blood-brain barrier. And once it converts to serotonin can help improve mood, control behavior and appetite, and help you sleep.

Research shows 5-HTP can help in impulse control, and balance out moods resulting in less anxiety.[iv] And even reduce panic attacks.

Dosing of 5-HTP is 50 mg 3-times per day for up to 2 weeks.

See the extended article for Nootropics Expert recommendations and warnings on supplementing with 5-HTP.

GABA

GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid) is an amino acid and neurotransmitter produced by glutamate in your brain. GABA in the brain is considered an inhibitory neurotransmitter which means is prevents other neurotransmitters from being released. Resulting in an anti-anxiety and calming effect.

GABA as a supplement makes a poor nootropic because it cannot cross the blood-brain barrier. Adding a phenyl group to GABA (called Phenibut (β-Phenyl-GABA)), this derivative is able to enter your brain to lower levels of anxiety and stress.

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo Biloba comes from the leaves of the Ginkgo tree native to China. The leaves have been used for thousands of years to boost mental alertness, improve cerebral circulation, and the overall function of the brain.

As a nootropic, Ginkgo has been shown to be particularly effective in elderly memory loss, slow thinking and reasoning, and tinnitus. One study shows significant improvement in Parkinson’s and Alzheimer patients.[v]

Most noticeable in adults suffering cognitive decline, Ginkgo Biloba seems to improve short term memory and recall. It’s also effective in reducing stress and anxiety, and boosting mood.

Dosage of Ginkgo Biloba is typically 120 – 240 mg. per day with food. Caution should be taken because Ginkgo can increase internal bleeding in some users.

Ginseng

Ginseng can improve symptoms of anxiety, and boost attention, concentration, and memory. Nootropic users above 40 find the most benefit in Ginseng.

Panax ginseng is native to southeast Asia. Other species include American Ginseng and Siberian Ginseng. Each have unique characteristics. Panax Ginseng is preferred, and is used as a memory booster, improves mood, lower anxiety levels, and boosts stamina and endurance.

Look for ginseng extract of at least 3-5% ginsenosides. A good starting dose is 100 mg per day.

Gotu Kola

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) is one of the most important herbs in ancient Ayurveda medicine. Ayurveda uses it to reduce anxiety, reduce fever and treat skin conditions. It improves circulation and promotes longevity.

Unfortunately, our brains also shrink as we age. Brain growth factor seems to diminish. But clinical trials show gotu kola extract can help spur growth in brain cells.[vi]

Users report gotu kola is at least as effective – perhaps even more so – in reducing anxiety and relieving stress than Ashwagandha and Phenibut.

As an extract dosage is 10 drops or 10-20 ml per day. As a dried herb make a tea of the dried leaf and use 3-times daily. As a powdered herb take 400-600 mg, three times per day.

Huperzine-A

Huperzine-A is a natural compound extracted from the Chinese club moss huperzia serrata. Huperzine-A is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor which means it boosts levels of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in your brain.

Iodine

Iodine is a cognitive enhancer not talked about much in the nootropic community. Iodine deficient populations are up to 13.5 IQ points less than normal populations.[vii]

Since iodine has largely been removed from table salt in some countries, many suggest an iodine deficiency epidemic. Particularly in countries like the United States.

Iodine is essential to a healthy thyroid. Remember, your thyroid is right next to your brain. Iodine deficiency during early childhood results in profound intellectual disability.

The thyroid hormones T4 and T3 are synthesized from iodine and tyrosine. These help regulate processes like growth and metabolism. Thyroid hormones target organs like the brain where they regulate gene expression. And help protect brain cells from toxins.

Ask anyone suffering from hypothyroidism about brain fog!

Dosage for a healthy adult is 25 – 50 mg per day. Supplemented with selenium. Brazil nuts are a great source of natural iodine. One Brazil nut can give you your daily dose.

Kava Kava

Kava (piper methysticum) is native to the South Pacific. Pacific Islanders traditionally use the plant for its sedative effects.

Kava can help to reduce anxiety, improve mood, and promote an overall sense of well-being. And unlike benzodiazepines, kava does not impair cognitive function. In fact, studies show kava may boost cognitive function.[viii]

Of the 105 varieties of kava, Noble and Tudei Kava has been traditionally used in the South Pacific Islands. And has been safely consumed for hundreds of years.

Daily dosage of Kava Kava is 250 – 500 mg. Some experts suggest taking less as it will have less impact on your liver. Experiment to find out what works for you.

L-dopa easily crosses the blood-brain barrier when used as a nootropic supplement. L-dopa can increase libido, testosterone, enhances memory and learning retention. It is also reported to increase human growth hormone (HGH) levels.[ix]

You can easily get extracts of Mucuna pruriens of up to 98% pure L-Dopa taken from velvet bean or cowitch. Dosage depends on the strength of the extract and can range from 150 mg to 1 gm per day.

Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) is used for its anti-anxiety effects. This plant from the mint family has a lemony scent, and is native to the Mediterranean region.

Rosmarinic acid, a compound found in lemon balm, inhibits the GABA transaminase enzyme. Which in turn helps maintain adequate levels of GABA in your brain. Resulting in a calming effect.

As a nootropic, lemon balm is most commonly used for stress relief, and reduction of panic attacks. Lemon balm also helps with focus, concentration, reduces irritability and depression, and improves memory and learning retention.

Lemon Balm by happynutritionist-flickr

Dosage of lemon balm is 1 – 2 grams of dried lemon balm leaf as a tea, or 300 – 600 mg of lemon balm extract as a nootropic supplement.

L-Glutamine

As a nootropic, L-glutamine increases the effectiveness and activity of neurotransmitters. Helping with improve focus, energy, cognition and retention when learning.

L-glutamine in your brain works by boosting glutamic acid and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). It also helps detox toxins and free radicals from your brain.

And by increasing GABA levels, L-glutamine can lead to reduced stress and better sleep.

Dosage of L-glutamine varies from 500 mg all the way to 10 or 20 grams. For nootropic use its typically on the lower end of the scale. Experiment with smaller amounts, and move up as needed to see what works best for you.

Lithium Orotate

Lithium retains a grim and undeserved reputation. Because it has been associated with treating serious mental issues like bipolar disorder and mania.

It turns out that the psychotic medication lithium isn’t even a drug. It’s actually an essential trace mineral required to maintain optimal cognitive function.

Studies from around the world have demonstrated the critical health benefits of lithium. One study using data from 27 Texas counties from 1978 – 1987 found that rates of suicide, homicide and rape were significantly higher in counties whose drinking water contained little or no lithium.

Experienced nootropic users often “stack” L-Theanine with caffeine for a synergistic effect to promote cognition, motivation and attention. As a bonus, the caffeine jitters are reduced when combined with L-Theanine.

Dosing L-Theanine as a nootropic is 250 – 500 mg and it is water soluble.

Magnesium

Magnesium doesn’t get the respect it should as a nootropic. The lack of adequate levels of magnesium in your body can result in brain fog, anxiety and depression.

Magnesium deficiency is nearly epidemic in our society because it is sorely lacking in our food supply.[x][xi]

Plasticity of neuron synapses is affected by the presence of adequate magnesium in brain cells. It helps improve memory and cognition. And reduces anxiety, brain fog and depression.

Magnesium can also help maintain healthy blood pressure, and help prevent sudden heart attack and stroke.

Most forms of Magnesium don’t work well as a nootropic supplement because they can’t easily cross the blood-brain barrier. A new form of magnesium called Magnesium-L-threonate is recommended for nootropic use. And is a great addition to any nootropic stack.

Methylene Blue is a potent antioxidant. It binds to superoxide created during metabolism within brain cells. Reducing it to water and stopping the oxidative cascade at its very beginning. Before it gets a chance to do damage.

Recommended safe dosage based on clinical studies ranges from 0.5 – 4 mg/kg of body weight. It’s water-soluble so you don’t have to take it with a meal or healthy fat.

But please see the “Side Effects” section in the main Methylene Blue review. Because you don’t want to take it with antidepressant or anti-anxiety medications. Or you put yourself at risk of Serotonin Syndrome.

Melatonin

A good night’s sleep is about the nearest we can get to the perfect nootropic. Melatonin (N-Acetyl-5-Methoxytryptamine) is a hormone made in your pineal gland. And it’s this hormone your body produces when its time to go to sleep.

Melatonin levels are low during the day. And peak at about 2 – 3 AM depending on your age. After that it steadily declines until morning.

When the timing is off and melatonin drops below optimal levels, you know you’re getting old(er). Or your pineal gland is not working optimally.

When the melatonin cycle is disrupted by jet-lag, aging or stress – your ability to think clearly, memory, and decision-making abilities can suffer.

Don’t take melatonin during the day or it will disrupt your natural circadian rhythm. Melatonin as a nootropic supplement taken 1 1/2 hours before bed is ideal.

The appropriate dose of melatonin can vary widely from person to person. Start with 1 – 3 mg, 90 minutes before bedtime. See how you feel. And if you readily fall and stay asleep until morning. Then adjust your dose from there – up or down. Most people don’t need any more than 3 – 5 mg. per night.

N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine

N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine (NALT) is a highly bio-available form of the amino acid L-Tyrosine. The brain uses L-Tyrosine to produce dopamine. And the neurotransmitter norepinephrinewhich is your “fight or flight” hormone.

Nefiracetam

Nefiracetam is one of the newer nootropics in the racetam family of cognitive enhancers. Developed in Japan, nefiracetam is used to treat learning and memory deficit diseases.[xiii]

Nefiracetam is structurally similar to Aniracetam but considered much more potent. This fat-soluble nootropic easily crosses the blood-brain barrier. It works in the hippocampus area of your brain to boost memory and recall.

Nefiracetam is used clinically to treat and prevent seizures, severe depression, and has shown neuroprotective qualities.

Dosing nefiracetam is based on body weight. Acceptable dosage levels according to limited reported user experience is 100 – 900 mg. per day. Most nootropic users experience some benefit in the lower range.

Nicotine

Nicotine molecules attach to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain. And seem to work by regulating other receptor systems. One obvious clue to how this works – nicotine tends to make you more alert. And has a calming effect.

The primary neurotransmitter that nicotine boosts is dopamine. Which may be the reason why it’s so addictive. As a result, it can also help prevent some diseases.

Dozens of clinical studies have been published showing nicotine effective in treating Parkinson’s, ADHD, Tourette’s, schizophrenia, and other neurological disorders.

Jennifer Rusted, professor of experimental psychology at Sussex University in Britain says, “nicotine is the most reliable cognitive enhancer that we currently have”.[xv]

Turns out the addictive quality of using tobacco isn’t entirely caused by nicotine. But by the interplay with all the other compounds found in a cigarette.

The key to using nicotine as a nootropic is NOT by smoking a cigarette. Use a nicotine patch or lozenge instead.

Recommended dosage of nicotine as a nootropic is 1 – 2 mg., preferably used sublingually.

Oat Straw

Oat Straw (avena sativa) comes from green oat grass. You may have heard the term “sowing your wild oats”. Oat Straw increases luteinizing hormone in your body, and is the basis for that saying. Luteinizing hormone stimulates testosterone production.

Oat Straw is an MAO-B inhibitor and increases dopamine levels in the brain. As a nootropic, Oat Straw can improve attention, cognition, concentration and focus. All benefits experienced when your dopamine and testosterone levels are optimized.

Oxiracetam

Oxiracetam is from the racetam family of nootropics. And up to 5-times more potent than piracetam. Oxiracetam stimulates acetylcholine use in the brain by working with the AMPA and NDMA receptors.

Oxiracetam can boost focus, memory, mental energy, recall, and improves fluidity of thinking. It’s most often stacked with a choline supplement because it boosts the use of choline in your brain.

Oxiracetam can be paired with other nootropics in a stack. And recommended dosage is 750 – 1,500 mg per day, and preferably dosed throughout the day. You should use Oxiracetam with a good choline source like Alpha GPC or CDP Choline to avoid fatigue or headache when using it.

Phenibut

Phenibut was developed in the Soviet Union in the 1960’s. Phenibut is a GABA agonist and primarily binds to the GABA-B receptor. GABA-A receptor GABA agonists include alcohol and benzodiazepines.

Phenibut can have a sedative effect, and has strong anti-anxiety qualities. It can be used to combat depression, improve mood, cognitive function and motivation.

A safe starting dose of Phenibut is 2 – 300 mg. Take it on an empty stomach and expect to feel it’s full effect in 2 – 6 hours. Experienced Phenibut users will dose as high as 1.5 grams per day (NOT recommended when you’re starting out).

Start with the lowest possible dosage of Picamilon and see how you tolerate it. 50 – 300 mg per day is typical. Most nootropic users find somewhere between 50 – 100 mg. 2 to 3 times per day is optimal. It is water soluble and should be taken on an empty stomach for quicker action.

Pine Bark extract is one of the most potent antioxidants discovered. Scavenging free radicals to protect neurons and other brain cells from oxidative damage.

Proanthocyanidins are condensed tannins responsible for the astringent character (pucker factor) of fruits, berries, beans and tea. Pine Bark is higher in these bioflavonoids than most other plant sources.

Piperine

Piperine is black pepper extract. And is used with other supplements for greater and faster absorption.

Piperine taken with a supplement like curcumin will prevent the liver from breaking down the curcumin before absorption. Piperine elevates other supplement levels in your body which can be good in some case. And detrimental in others.

You’ll often see BioPerine® added as a compound in some nootropic or supplement stacks. BioPerine® is a patented form of Piperine that is said to significantly enhance the bioavailability of various nutrients through increased absorption.

Piracetam

Piracetam was developed by Romanian chemist, and the godfather of nootropics, Dr. Corneliu E. Giurgea in 1964. This is the first racetam ever developed.

Piracetam is a cyclic derivative of GABA but does not affect the GABA receptors in your brain.

Instead, Piracetam seems to influence the AMPA and NMDA receptors. This affects learning and memory processes in the brain.

Piracetam also affects the neurotransmitter acetylcholine by boosting ACh receptors into accepting or being more sensitive to acetylcholine.

As a nootropic, piracetam boosts focus, learning, and memory. Piracetam also acts as a neuroprotectant.[xvii]

Dosing of Piracetam ranges from 1 – 4.8 grams per day. Dosed throughout the day. If it’s your first time using Piracetam start at the lower end of the range and work your up. If you’re stacking with other racetam you’ll likely use smaller quantities of Piracetam.

Rhodiola Rosea

AMPK (adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase) is an enzyme found inside each of our cells and works as the body’s master regulating switch. AMPK is reduced as we age. But it is possible to increase AMPK using compounds such as Rhodiola Rosea.

When AMPK is “switched on” it triggers the use of stored energy from fats, removes fats and sugars from the blood, boost mitochondria production, reduces inflammation, and takes out the cellular “garbage”.[xviii]

When AMPK is activated in brain cells it prevents diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Rhodiola Rosea is a plant that grows at high altitudes and in cold regions of the world. It decreases depression and stress-related mood swings, reduces fatigue, stimulates energy and alertness, and boosts cognition.

Phenylalanine

Phenylalanine is an amino acid that easily crosses the blood-brain barrier. It is not produced by the body so must be obtained by food or in supplement form. Examples of natural sources of Phenylalanine are meat and milk products.

Using Phenylalanine as a nootropic helps fight chronic pain, improve mood and boost energy. It also helps in relief from anxiety, improves focus and boost motivation. DL-Phenylalanine is used to help combat ADHD and Parkinson’s.

Phosphatidylcholine (PC)

Phosphatidylcholine is a phospholipid with the highest concentration found in the brain and liver. Used as a nootropic supplement, Phosphatidylcholine (PC) helps build and repair cell membranes.

When phosphatidylcholine is used as a nootropic, it separates into choline and sphingomyelin in your brain. Choline is a precursor to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. And sphingomyelin helps in the development and protection of brain nerve cells.

When blood levels of choline are low, phosphatidylcholine is cannibalized from cell walls to make acetylcholine. This eventually leads to nasty diseases like Alzheimer’s, poor memory and recall, loss of focus and brain fog, and more.

To boost choline in your brain, you can supplement with phosphatidylcholine. As a nootropic supplement dosing ranges from 1,200 mg – 5 grams per day. If you are new to neurohacking, start on the lower range of the scale and dose 2 or 3 times per day.

PQQ

PQQ (pyrroloquinoline quinone) is an enzyme cofactor, and the only nutrient known to facilitate the growth of new mitochondria in your brain cells.

Researchers found PQQ supplementation can boost the production and release of nerve growth factors in cells that support creation of new neurons in the brain. And promotes neuroplasticity that helps neurons develop the connections needed for learning and developing memories.[xx]

More studies support PQQ’s ability to increase mitochondrial density, reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, and improve learning and memory. As an antioxidant, PQQ is thousands of times more potent than Vitamin C.

Without PQQ, mitochondria wear out and brain cells age faster. Supplementing with PQQ should give you a brain energy boost. And provide anti-aging benefits.

Pramiracetam

Pramiracetam is a GABA-like derivative of piracetam. It’s said to be 5 – 30 times more potent than piracetam.

Pramiracetam is a fat-soluble nootropic and highly bio-available. It is thought to increase acetylcholine receptors in the brain. This racetam improves memory and verbal recall.[xxi]

Because pramiracetam stimulates choline uptake in the brain it should be stacked with a good choline source like Alpha GPC or CDP Choline. And it’s fat-soluble so needs to be taken with food or a good fat source like fish or coconut oil.

Optimal dosage of pramiracetam as a nootropic is 1,200 mg divided into 2 or 3 doses during the day.

A word of caution however. St John’s Wort is a strong CYP3A4 liver enzyme inducer. This enzyme is responsible for metabolizing psychoactive compounds in the liver. This translates to nullifying the effect of any other nootropics you may be taking.

Dosing St John’s Wort is anywhere from 900 to 1,800 mg per day. But be careful of using it with any other nootropics or medications.

Tryptophan

Serotonin, the “happiness molecule” relies on an adequate supply of Tryptophan for synthesis. Low levels of serotonin in the brain are often due to an inadequate supply of Tryptophan.

Tryptophan is found in abundance in oats, bananas, dried prunes, milk, tuna, cheese, bread, chicken, turkey, peanuts and chocolate. But our bodies often have problems converting this Tryptophan to serotonin in our brain.

Adding L-Tryptophan to your nootropic stack can help you boost serotonin levels. As a nootropic supplement, L-Tryptophan is used to treat anxiety, ADHD, depression, insomnia, memory loss, pain and eating disorders.

Turmeric

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is the anti-Alzheimer’s spice. Turmeric is one of the main spices in curries. In parts of India where curries are eaten most often, Alzheimer’s disease is extremely rare.

Turmeric is unique in the ability to reduce inflammation common to Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and brain tumors.

Researchers at the Department of Neurosurgery, University of South Florida College of Medicine in Tampa, FL found that the curcuminoids in turmeric help break apart the plaque that clogs the brains in Alzheimer’s patients. [xxiv]

Turmeric has a combination of curcuminoids, volatile oils and proteins that make it anti-bacterial, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-septic.

Some neurohackers maintain that turmeric or curcumin is the best nootropic. You can increase the bioavailability of turmeric by combining it with Piperine (black pepper extract) and a healthy fat like olive or coconut oil.

Tyrosine

L-Tyrosine is an amino acid produced by Phenylalanine in your body. L-Tyrosine is directly involved in creating dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine in your brain.

L-Tyrosine is also a precursor to thyroxin (the body’s main thyroid hormone).

You get tyrosine from almonds, bananas, dairy products, eggs, lima beans, oats, poultry and wheat germ. Tyrosine hitchhikes on the back of amino acids like tryptophan to cross the blood-brain barrier to enter your brain.

RNA levels decrease as we age. Supplementing with Uridine as a nootropic is one of the ultimate anti-aging tools to improve memory function.

The monophosphate portion of uridine is the transporter that helps uridine move through your digestive tract unharmed. And delivers uridine across the blood-brain barrier.

Uridine affects the synthesis of phosphatides in the brain which are critical to cellular membranes. When you increase the synaptic proteins in your brain, you boost the number of synapses. Improving various aspects of cognition.

Recommended dosage for you just starting out with uridine monophosphate as a nootropic is 150 – 250 mg twice per day. Take it with a good Vitamin B-Complex and a large dose of fish oil (i.e. 700 mg DHA + 300 mg EPA).

You can take uridine monophosphate sublingually for a more pronounced effect. Adding 300 mg of Alpha GPC or CDP Choline is also recommended.

Vinpocetine

Vinpocetine is derived from the periwinkle plant. It easily crosses the blood-brain barrier. And help improve brain blood supply, boosts oxygen and glucose use by the brain, maintains healthy levels of neurotransmitters, and promotes better concentration, focus, and memory.

Vitamin B1 is water soluble and is stored in your body for only 14 days. If you don’t get enough B1 you’ll experience irritability, confusion and memory problems. A severe deficiency can manifest itself as beriberi, pain, heart problems, or even paralysis.

Recommended daily dosage of Vitamin B1 is only 1.4 mg per day. You’ll experience a nootropic benefit with Vitamin B1 at higher doses of 50 – 100 mg per day.

Vitamin B3 (Niacin) is the only B vitamin that can be synthesized in the liver from the amino acid tryptophan.

Niacin causes blood vessels to dilate or open up which is especially noticeable near the skin. Taking regular niacin as a nootropic supplement can cause a tingling sensation or red flushing of the skin.

1,000 mg of “extended-release” niacin taken 3-times per day can improve memory, and correct some senility problems. Dosing 50 – 1,000 mg at bedtime taken at bedtime may help you sleep better.

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)

You need Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) to synthesize coenzyme-A for the production of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.

Your body cannot make Vitamin B5 on it’s own so it needs to come from food or a supplement. Vitamin B5 is found in nearly every food type. But much of the Vitamin B5 in Western processed food has been removed during processing.

Using Vitamin B5 as a nootropic can boost focus, memory, learning, and reduce brain fog.

Recommended dosing of Vitamin B5 is 5 mg per day. But neurohackers suggest a higher dosage like a one-to-two ratio with a choline supplement. For example, 250 mg of Vitamin B5 with 500 mg of CDP Choline.

Green leafy vegetables, or ‘foliage’ are rich sources of folate. And how ‘folate’ got its name. You can also get folate from citrus fruit juice, legumes, fortified foods (more on this controversy in the extended article), and liver.

Many neurohackers, including doctors and other health professionals confuse folate with folic acid. They are NOT the same.

In the extended article, we explore the differences between folate and folic acid. And how Vitamin B9 (Folate) is critical for the fully optimized brain.

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) deficiency is common among Western adults.[xxvi] Vitamin B12 plays a key role in the efficient conversion of carbohydrates to glucose – your cell’s source of fuel. It also helps your body to convert fatty acids into energy.

Vitamin B12 is the largest vitamin we know of so it’s not as easily absorbed as others. As you get older the body loses the ability to transport Vitamin B12 in the cells in your large intestine where it’s pulled into your bloodstream.

The older you get the more difficult it is for you to get ANY B12 into your body. So the older you get the more likely you’ll need to supplement with Vitamin B12.

B12 in its natural form is only available through animal food sources including seafood, beef, chicken, pork, milk and eggs.

To get an adequate supply of Vitamin B12 as you get older is really only available through supplementation.

Even though B12 is water soluble, it doesn’t exit your body as quickly as other water-soluble supplements. It’s stored in your liver, kidneys and other body tissues. This means a deficiency may not show up for a number of years. But by then it may be too late and irreversible brain damage can potentially result.

The best way to dose Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) as a nootropic is sublingually (under the tongue), or a B12 shot. The first way is much less expensive and considerably less painful.

Higher quality Vitamin B12 comes as methylcobalamin or adenosylcobalamin which are the forms of B12 naturally occurring in your body.

The recommended dosage for Vitamin B12 deficiency is 2,000 mcg daily for a week, then 1,000 mcg doses of B12 once per week for a month. Then your maintenance dose is 1,000 mcg monthly.[xxvii]

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is involved in gene expression, regulation of neurotrophic factors, neuroplasticity, and brain development early in life. All in areas of the brain associated with depression. And the neuroplasticity needed for memory formation and retrieval.

Vitamin D3 is the fat-soluble steroid hormone form of Vitamin D. The “sunshine vitamin” is considered essential. Your skin synthesizes Vitamin D3 from ultraviolet-B (UVB) sunlight.

As a neurohacker, you should be aware that you are likely deficient in this essential vitamin. Vitamin D deficiency (hypovitaminosis D) is an undeclared worldwide pandemic affecting nearly 50% of the population on this planet.

The preferred method for getting adequate Vitamin D is from UVB sunlight on exposed skin.

But all kinds of things can interfere with getting enough Vitamin D from sunlight. Fall and Winter in both hemispheres, cloud cover, smog, skin color, sunscreen, and too much clothing are all factors.

And most of us spend so much time indoors, to get its benefits you should take Vitamin D3 as a supplement.

It is integral to the activity of at least 100 enzymes. And zinc helps lower oxidative stress which protects brain cells and cerebral blood flow. It is part of protein synthesis needed to make neurotransmitters. And it’s involved in DNA repair, synthesis and cell division.

Zinc deficiency is common even in our Western society because we often don’t get enough from food. If you’re vegan or vegetarian, you are particularly susceptible.

Zinc levels are low in those with depression. And the lower the zinc level, the more severe the depression.

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About David Tomen

David has been researching nootropics and brain optimization for over 10 years. When he's not writing about nootropics, he's travelling the world (45 countries so far), sailing, diving, studying neuroscience or sitting under an umbrella on Miami Beach. More...

Comments

Addison, Methylene Blue is on my “to-do” list for Nootropics Expert. Thanks for asking and make sure you get a copy of “Secrets of the Optimized Brain”. That way you’ll get an email when I do the Methylene Blue review.

I am looking to take supplements to increase cognition, memory and motivation. i think Mind Lab Pro looks great for these purposes but I am also attracted to Piracetam which is pretty impressive. Can I take Piracetam together with Mind Lab Pro? Since it’s an artificial compound, can I take this combination all the time for general maintenance or is it better occasionally, for a special event, project..etc.? Thanks for your feedback!

Michel, you absolutely can take Piracetam with Mind Lab Pro. But you will need more choline than what’s provided by MLP. See dosage instructions in the Piracetam review for suggestions on acetylcholine precursors. I’ve used Aniracetam every day with Mind Lab Pro for 2 years. With great results.

I wish I could give you a quick answer to your question. But until you get to the bottom of what is causing the symptoms you’ll be blindly trying various nootropics until you find something that works. Never knowing why. That’s an expensive, time consuming and frustrating way to go about this.

You may want to get a copy of my new book called “Head First” because it’ll help you get a clearer understanding of what you are dealing with. And possibly give you some ideas on how to figure out what you need to do to get rid of the brain fog. And get your energy back.

Hey David, I usually drift off several times when I study, so it takes me longer to study because i have to usually review the same page or video more then once. What would you consider as a good supplement regimen for studying? Thank you in advance.

Jae, nootropic supplements can do wonders for the human brain. But they are not magic pills. There is no nootropic stack that can compete with Gabapentin, Cymbalta, Hydoxyzine and/or Busporine.

I highly recommend you look into the mechanism of action of each one of these drugs. And learn exactly how they work in your brain. As long as you are using such potent pharmaceuticals you are not likely to experience any benefit from any nootropic supplement. And in fact, several of the nootropics on this list are downright deadly if used with the meds you are currently on.

But Lithium Orotate is used in such small doses it doesn’t even show up in blood tests. The drug interaction checkers base their science on pharmaceutical Lithium (i.e. Carbonate) which is used a very high doses. If you have a knowledgeable doctor I suggest you check with them.

I’m not the expert but was searching for another post & eye caught Gabapentin. I’m on pain mngmt 10+ yrs, nerve damage caused by mercury. I took Gabapentin about 1 yr, half your dose, caused terrible depression, & didn’t help much with pain. Researched & found is a seizure drug. I wonder if Dr’s get a kick back from maker bc really push GP, even when told Dr. didn’t feel helping much. Researched & carefully weaned off & felt so much better in a few mo’s. Have friend pushed to take GP, for nerve damage & he became severely depressed, finally weaned off & depression faded away. Agree with David, good idea to research all perscription meds to know exactly what you’re taking & side affects, then decide if really helping or causing more harm than good. Pain meds are brutal on the body/mind. I’ve attempted to go without, but pain is too severe. I’ve switched to a monthly injection, so far working well, no depression. However, finding info on David’s site invaluable, my hope is to heal decades of damage. Best wishes, Debbie

Hi David ! One question – if I already take a Choline supplement like CDP Choline and/or Alpha GPC would it also be adviceable to take some Phosphatidylcholine ? (Is Phosphatidylcholine not a mere Choline-Supplement ?)

Christian, good question but you need to understand the mechanism of action of both to know why you can use both PC and CDP-Choline.

Phosphatidylcholine is one of two fatty acids that make up the outer layer of the membrane covering each of the 70 trillion cells in your body. It is also converted in your body through a process called hydrolysis to make up the fatty acids AA, oleic, linoleic, linolenic, and DHA. Of course, your brain cells can draw on PC for its choline component to produce acetylcholine as needed.

CDP-Choline separates into cytidine and choline once it’s digested. When it gets to your brain it converts back to CDP-Choline. The choline is needed to synthesize the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh). And Cytidine is a component of Ribonucleic acid (RNA). This molecule is involved in coding, decoding, regulation and the expression of genes. But once it gets into the brain, it converts to uridine. Which helps repair brain cell membranes.

So you see they are two very different supplements both providing unique benefits. But keep in mind that when supplementing with both PC and CDP-Choline or Alpha GPC you need to consider dosages. Because too much of each can elevate acetylcholine too much. Which results in side effects you want to avoid.